FIC Report (Benue State) – The Head of the Nigerian Nuclear Regulatory Authority (NNRA) Benue State Office and Chairman of the Association of Heads of Federal Establishments (AHFE), Mr. Phillip Abumere, has reaffirmed the Authority’s commitment to strengthening its regulatory activities and delivering quality services to the people of Benue State.
Mr. Abumere gave the assurance on Tuesday, March 10, 2026, during a meeting of the Association of Heads of Federal Establishments held at the Industrial Training Fund (ITF) Area Office in Makurdi.
Presenting a paper at the meeting, Abumere highlighted the core mandate of the NNRA, noting that the Authority regulates the possession and application of radioactive substances and devices that emit ionizing radiation. According to him, the NNRA is also responsible for ensuring the protection of human health, property, and the environment from the harmful effects of ionizing radiation.
He added that the Authority advises the Federal Government on matters relating to nuclear safety, radiation protection, and nuclear security, while also fostering cooperation with international organizations and other bodies with similar objectives.
Speaking on the powers of the Authority, Abumere explained that the NNRA has the legal mandate to categorize and license activities involving exposure to ionizing radiation. These include the possession, production, processing, manufacturing, purchase, sale, import, export, handling, use, transfer, trading, and disposal of radioactive materials, waste, prescribed substances, and any apparatus emitting ionizing radiation.
He further noted that radioactive sources are widely used across various sectors of the Nigerian economy, including the petroleum and mining industries, manufacturing, construction, agriculture and water resources, the health sector, education and research, as well as customs and security screening.
In his remarks, the Area Officer of the Nigerian Shippers’ Council, Makurdi Area Office, Mr. Tonfipan Ishaku Yuatu, alongside other members of the Association, asked questions to seek further clarification on the presentation. Abumere provided detailed responses to address their concerns.
Bridget Tarker
For: Head of Centre
Federal Information Centre, Makurdi
